Quiz: Do You Have Control of Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Symptoms?

In some cases, a good moisturizer can alleviate most of the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. But for people who have moderate-to-severe eczema, finding relief can be harder.

People with more severe atopic dermatitis may develop symptoms such as dry, itchy, inflamed skin or rough, scaly patches that may leak fluid. But what’s considered “severe” can vary from person to person.

“Moderate-to-severe eczema is not only about body surface area, but also how severely it affects a person,” says Suzanne Friedler, MD, a clinical instructor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital and dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology in New York City. It’s also about how the condition is affecting you as a whole, including whether atopic dermatitis has interfered with your self-worth, ability to work, or relationships.

No matter how severe the condition is, with the right lifestyle changes and treatment, it’s possible to have clear skin. Take this quiz to see if your current regimen is keeping symptoms under control or whether you might want to change up your skin-care routine.

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Additional Sources

Eczema Types: Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms. American Academy of Dermatology Association. October 10, 2023.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema). Mayo Clinic. May 15, 2024.
Eczema. Cleveland Clinic. October 25, 2022.

Ross Radusky, MD

Medical Reviewer

Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Ross Radusky, MD, is a practicing board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas. Originally from New York City, he graduated summa cum laude from the City University of New York and then received his MD from the New York University School of Medicine. There, he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and served as chapter president for two years. He completed his residency in dermatology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical Center, and at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Dr. Radusky practices general and cosmetic dermatology with a focus on the early detection of skin cancer, and provides patients with a personalized approach to looking their best at any age. He has authored articles and textbook chapters on the clues that our finger- and toenails may provide us about internal disease, as well as on comprehensive therapies for cosmetic dermatology and reversing the signs of skin aging.

Complementing his medical practice, Radusky has a strong passion for the cultural arts, particularly in expanding access to youths and seniors. He previously served as an artist instructor for the Rockaway Artists Alliance, a New York City nonprofit arts and education organization, and then served as both a board director and treasurer of the organization throughout his medical school training.

Radusky enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife Robyn, son Oliver, and poodle Lucy, where he can usually be found preventing photoaging and reducing the risk of skin cancer beneath an umbrella in a wide-brimmed hat. He is also the proud inventor of Sunshotz, the world’s only sunscreen measuring cup, designed to help patients of all ages apply the proper amount of sunscreen needed to enjoy all the sun without the burn.

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Erica Patino

Author

Erica Patino is a freelance writer and editor, content strategist, and usability specialist who has worked for a variety of online health outlets, including Healthline, Sharecare, and Twill Care. She was previously a senior editor at Everyday Health. She is also the founder and editor-in-chief of Hear 2 Tell, a website that covers advances in hearing loss treatment. Patino lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband and twin sons.

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Do You Have Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms Under Control?

Question 1

Do you ever scratch your skin so much that it bleeds?